The Opportunity Network for Employment (ONE) Program Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after I contact the coordinator of the ONE Program?

An appointment will be scheduled, at which point, additional
information about the ONE Program will be provided to you. You will be
asked about your educational background, work experience, and vocational
interests.

If you choose to seek assistance through the ONE Program, you
will be asked to sign a release form, allowing information about your
skills and abilities to be obtained from the agency you currently
receive assistance from (i.e. OVR, The Arc of Centre County, Skills of
Central PA, etc.).

Does everyone who requests assistance through the ONE program get a job?

Participation in the ONE Program does not guarantee
employment. Many qualified applicants apply for jobs, and managers
determine which applicant to hire.

If I get a job with assistance from the ONE Program, what additional contact will I have with the ONE coordinator?

Prior to starting a job, you would meet with the ONE Program
Coordinator to prepare a memo regarding the job you will begin and any
assistance you may need to learn or perform the job. This memo will also
be given to your supervisor, the human resource manager for the work
unit, and your agency counselor.

If I get a job with assistance from the ONE Program and want
to find a different job at a later date, can I request assistance
through the ONE Program again?

Yes. We work with individuals over time as their employment situations or vocational interests change.

What if I need additional training and support from a job coach?

Funding from OVR or the Base Service Unit allows some
individuals to qualify for job coaching services. Many managers at Penn
State have hired employees who receive support from a job coach.

If I am unable to drive due to my disability, are there any transportation resources that might be helpful for me?

Yes. Persons with disabilities, who live in a rural area
outside the CATA bus service area, may be eligible for the Rural
Transportation Program for Persons with Disabilities.

This program provides door-to-door services for a nominal fee, and they operate Mon-Fri.

For additional information and eligibility requirements, please
call the Centre County Office of Transportation Services at (814)
355-6807.

Do I need to notify the hiring manager I sought assistance through the ONE Program?

No. You can choose to receive indirect assistance through the
ONE Program. This can include learning about the vacancy and
application process for jobs at Penn State, getting help with writing a
cover letter or resume, or with preparing for an interview.

What kind of jobs have persons with disabilities gotten with assistance from the ONE Program?

Persons with disabilities have obtained jobs that are as varied
as those individuals’ abilities. Some of the jobs obtained include: